Enjoy steampunk film, readings and costumes at AnomalyCon 2012

by next ooze

Denver’s first and only steampunk convention is well underway this weekend. The opening ceremonies were held yesterday (Friday, March 22) at 10:00 AM. But don’t for a minute think you’re too late, as there’s plenty awesome programming still to come. The fun doesn’t end until Sunday’s closing ceremonies at 5:00 PM.

From a writerly perspective, this con has plenty to offer. Among the con’s author guests are Ekaterina Sedia (Heart of Iron), Genevieve Valentine (Mechanique: A Tale of the Circus Tresaulti), David Boop and Kevin J. Anderson (too many titles to know which to menton). And the programming schedule abounds with panels relevant to authorial interest, from the “Author Free-For-All” today at 4:00 PM (“Our host asks wacky questions and our guests each have a minute to answer. Hilarity and insight ensue!”) to any number of discussions furthering steampunk worldbuilding (e.g. “Multicultural Steampunk,” Sat. 5:00 PM; “Class Issues in Steampunk,” Sat. 6:00 PM; “But Will She Fly? Aerodynamics in the World of Steampunk,” Sat. 8:00 PM).

There will be — and has been — plenty of music and dancing, too. Tonight’s big event is the Grand Ball. Attendees in fantastic attire will be whirling about waltzwise. Musical guest Unwoman (Erika Mulkey) will put in a special (and no doubt danceable) performance — she’ll also be performing on the outside stage along with BB Blackdog this afternoon at 5:00 PM.

(I had the privilege of encountering Unwoman for the first time at this past World Con. Do not miss this performance! Trust me. She is fantastic.)

But of course the main attraction at any steampunk event has got to be the costumes. This is one of the best opportunities outside of Ren Faire to show off your best corsets, top hats, pocketwatches and goggles. Possibly all at once! Even if you don’t yourself enjoy dressing up, you’re get a kick out of watching those who do parade the halls of the Tivoli Student Union.

Parking on Auraria Campus costs $4-6 depending on the parking lot you use. If you don’t mind a bit of a walk from Market Street Station, taking the bus from Boulder will cost you $5.00 or a Regional-rate bus pass (one way). The Tivoli Student Union is at 900 Auraria Parkway — look towards the south(ish) side of Speer for the tall brick smokestack that says “TIVOLI” in big white descending letters.

If you come, and you like what you see, consider availing yourself of the opportunity to pre-register at a special discount rate for AnomalyCon 2013: “The greatest party after the Apocalypse!”